With many children starting primary school this week, it’s a good time to remind parents and carers to check their children are on track with their routine vaccinations, such as their Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccination and 4-in-1 pre-school booster, and if not, to come forward to book their appointments.
Vaccines are the best defence to protect against serious childhood diseases, but more than one in ten children in England are not up to date with their vaccinations.
For children aged one to five, we are urging parents that aren’t sure if their children are up to date to check their child’s red book and make an appointment for any missed doses through their local GP surgery.
A range of vital vaccinations are also offered to secondary school age children. This includes the HPV vaccination which is offered to children aged 12 and 13. This can protect against a range of cancers, including cervical cancer, so the NHS encourages people to take up this offer.
A guide to vaccinations and when to have them can be found on the NHS website here: NHS vaccinations and when to have them - NHS (www.nhs.uk)